Ten Hag Confirms Hojlund and Antony Return for Crucial Champions League Clash
Erik ten Hag has delivered a positive update for Manchester United fans, revealing that Rasmus Hojlund and Antony are both in contention for Wednesday night’s pivotal Champions League encounter against Galatasaray.
With three defeats in their first four group stage games, the Red Devils are at a critical juncture, needing a victory to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
After a 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray at Old Trafford earlier in the competition, United seeks redemption in the challenging environment of Istanbul.
Both Hojlund and Antony were absent from the 3-0 triumph against Everton, but the duo participated in Tuesday morning’s training session.
As a result, Ten Hag confirmed their availability for the trip to Turkey, stating, “They are in the squad.”
Hojlund, who has netted all five of his goals for United in the Champions League since his £72 million summer transfer, will be eager to contribute to his tally in Wednesday’s crucial clash.
Despite Kobbie Mainoo earning praise for his standout performance against Everton, Ten Hag expressed confidence in the young talent, emphasizing, “If they are good enough, they are old enough.”
Acknowledging Mainoo’s maturity, the manager stressed the importance of consistency and focus, cautioning players against distractions.
Amid the rising stock of Mainoo and the return of key attackers, Ten Hag emphasized the primary objective in Istanbul: securing a victory.
Anything less would narrow United’s path in the competition, intensifying the stakes for the remainder of the campaign.